Stage star set for return after beating cancer

A Bulwell amateur panto star is gearing up to make his return to the stage after overcoming prostate cancer.

Haydn Taylor (63), who is a member of the Kimberley- based NOWMADS ( Nottingham West Music and Drama Society), was diagnosed with the disease followinga referal by his doctor back in 2012.

“When you hear that terrible word cancer it strikes fear into your heart and I must say I thought that my world had collapsed around me,” said Haydn.

“When the diagnosis finally sank in I found myself at the mercy of the wonderful team at the City Hospital who I can’t thank them enough for their immense surgical skills,vast medical expertise and the brilliant support and kindness that they showed.”

His devoted wife Kathryn, their daughter Siobhan, and the good wishes and support of relatives, friends and work colleagues have played a part in Haydn’s recovery.

“I am so relieved, it has been a nightmare and I can’t wait to get back on the stage with the NOWMADS who I regard as my second family.”

Haydn has joined the NOWMADS at their rehearsals for the forthcoming production of the pantomime Aladdin and if all goes well he will be donning his wigs and dresses to take on the role of Widow Twankey.

“I have played the part of the Dame on eight occasions with NOWMADS as well as appearing in Panto at Mansfield’s Palace Theatre.

“It is a role I really like taking on for I get to share a rapport with the audience as well has getting all the best lines.” he said.

Haydn and his wife have both worked in local government for Nottinghamshire County Council for 33-years and just for good measure he runs his own wedding photography business.

“I can’t stress to my fellow men the importance of having a PSA (Prostate Specific Antegen) test as part of their regular check up with their GP. It is a simple blood test for Prostate Cancer and in my case detecting the cancer early has saved my life.” said Haydn.